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Date: 27 April 2026
Category: Things to do
Children and teens from across Belfast are invited to enjoy a packed day of free activities and try-it events at City Hall on Saturday 9 May, 1pm-5pm, as the Lord Mayor’s term in office draws to a close.
First Citizen Councillor Tracy Kelly is inviting young people to come along and try their hand at arts, crafts, music, sports, theatre and more.
Children big and small can give sports a go as part of the city’s European City of Sport celebrations, with the chance to try boxing, fencing and table tennis.
Sports clubs Full Circle Martial Arts and Sandy Row Falcons will be showing off their kickboxing and cheerleading moves, while Fitness Freddy will host his high-energy sessions for kids and parents to join in with.
The Belfast Health Development Unit will run Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing workshops, highlighting the value of self-care, nutrition and good mental and physical health. Kids can hop on GLL’s smoothie bikes to make their own healthy treats, while Explore Wellbeing Kids will host relaxed family-friendly mindfulness sessions with fun games and calm music.
Tre-Eco – one of Lord Mayor’s chosen charities this year – will create a space for crafts and mindful colouring where visitors can let go of their worries, together with sunflower planting for green-fingered youngsters.
City Hall’s lawns will also host circus skills workshops, sensory play and creative activities made from recycled materials, while the Great Hall will have a ‘Good Vibes Only’ disco rave and a silent disco for music fans.
Children with additional needs can create their own theatre performance with Open Arts’ Take Away Theatre (pre-booking needed – email [email protected]).
Visitors can also make crafts from around the world with ArtsEkta and step into the creative world of VR gaming, animation and DJing with Wheelworks Arts.
Stuart Robinson from Cool FM will also be on hand with music, interactive fun and prize giveaways and Little Heroes and NI Alternatives – two more of Lord Mayor’s charities – will highlight their work in the city.
There might even be some surprise characters to spot around City Hall grounds too!
Councillor Kelly said: “I’ve been meeting with young people throughout my term to make sure they feel engaged in our city, understand what it can offer them and hear their feedback on what works, and what matters, to them.
“I’m following that through with my Lord Mayor’s Day event, a really colourful and fun day which everyone can come along and enjoy.
“There’s a real focus on sports, creativity and music - all areas where our children and young people can excel, develop skills, build friendships and improve their resilience and wellbeing.
“I’m really looking forward to a jam-packed day and to celebrating our city’s amazing young people, with a great day out.”
Stuart Robinson, Content Director with Bauer Media Audio NI, said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be broadcasting live and taking part in the Lord Mayor’s Day celebrations at City Hall.
“It’s a fantastic occasion that really brings the whole city together, and it’s a privilege to be part of such a vibrant and proud community event.”
Entry to Lord Mayor’s Day is free, with more information available at belfastcity.gov.uk/lordmayorsday